When a person dies without a will, an Administration of the estate is the action used to open the estate.  The person appointed to manage the estate is named an administrator.  When the Administration of the estate is filed and order entered, a form named letters of administration is made and provided to the Administrator. The letters of administration is the document the administrator uses to prove his or her appointment and opening of the estate, and used to gain property and take other actions on behalf of the estate.

You must be at least eighteen (18) years of age to serve as an administrator.